Sometimes, after a long day, all you want is the comforting embrace of homemade food that you know is packed with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. That’s where my Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein comes in—it’s like bringing your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen without any of the hassle!
I discovered this delightful recipe during one of those evenings when nothing in the fridge seemed appealing, and I was desperate for something satisfying yet quick. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish transforms simple chicken and colorful veggies into a feast of textures and tastes that will even make your takeout-loving friends sit up and take notice.
Imagine the sizzle of garlic mingling with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all tossed together with luscious, umami-packed sauces. Whether you’re looking to impress a date or just treat yourself to something delicious after a tiring week, this Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein is versatile enough to suit every occasion and mood. Let’s dive in and bring some homemade magic to your table!
Why will you love Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein?
Simplicity Meets Flavor: This recipe is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a quick, satisfying meal.
Fresh Ingredients: You’ll enjoy the vibrant colors and crisp textures of fresh veggies, which you can easily customize based on your favorites.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its restaurant-quality taste.
Quick Preparation: With minimal ingredients and just one pan needed, cleanup is a snap, leaving you more time to relax.
Versatility: Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu, making it adaptable to any dietary preference.
For inspiration on variations, don’t miss my tips on customizing this recipe.
Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Chinese egg noodles – 10 ounces provide that delightful chewy texture that brings the dish to life.
For the Chicken
• Chicken breasts – 2, thinly sliced; they cook quickly and soak up all the flavorful sauces.
For the Vegetables
• Red bell pepper – 1, thinly sliced; adds sweetness and a vibrant color to your dish.
• Carrot – 1, thinly sliced; brings crunch and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Onion – 1/2 cup, thinly sliced; enhances the aromatic base of the dish.
• Shredded cabbage – 1/2 cup; adds a crunch that balances the tender noodles.
• Bean sprouts – 1 cup; provide a delightful crunch and freshness.
For the Sauce
• Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon; a small amount adds a rich, nutty flavor to the noodles.
• Vegetable oil – 3 tablespoons total; this is used for cooking and frying, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Minced ginger – 1 teaspoon; brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; infuses the dish with a fragrant and savory aroma.
• Water – 3/4 cup; helps to create the perfect sauce consistency for the noodles.
• Light soy sauce – 1/4 cup; delivers that essential umami taste that makes this Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein so satisfying.
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons; thickens the sauce for a silky finish.
• Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon; adds a rich, savory taste that makes the dish sing.
Now that you’re equipped with all the essential ingredients, it’s time to create a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with delightful aromas! Cooking this Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein is a joyful journey toward a meal you’ll crave again and again.
How to Make Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein
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Boil the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the Chinese egg noodles for 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions. This will ensure they remain perfectly chewy when combined with other ingredients.
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Drain and Toss: Drain the noodles and toss them in a bowl with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to coat evenly. This step adds a rich, nutty flavor right from the get-go!
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers—this means it’s perfect for adding your chicken.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through, making sure to flip them for even cooking.
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Sauté the Veggies: Remove the chicken from the pan and toss in the red bell pepper, minced ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until they soften and become aromatic, bringing a lovely balance to the dish.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together 3/4 cup water, 1/4 cup light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon oyster sauce. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir well to combine.
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Add Remaining Veggies: Toss in the sliced carrot, onion, and cabbage. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and drained noodles to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat in the sauce and cook for an additional minute, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Finish with Crunch: Finally, add the bean sprouts and give everything one last toss, ensuring they’re well distributed. Serve hot and enjoy every savory bite!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the noodles and veggies.
Freezer: Freeze in a rigid container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat on the stovetop.
Reheating: Always reheat thoroughly until piping hot. Adding a little extra soy sauce can help refresh the flavor of your Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Variations & Substitutions for Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein
Feel free to tweak your dish for a personalized touch that suits your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute Chinese egg noodles with gluten-free rice noodles for a tasty alternative. It’s an easy switch that doesn’t sacrifice flavor!
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Protein Swap: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken to cater to different dietary preferences. Both options cook quickly and soak up those irresistible sauces!
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Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like snow peas or broccoli to boost nutrition and color. This twist makes each bite an explosion of freshness and flavor!
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Veggie-Only Delight: For a meatless meal, skip the chicken altogether and toss in extra mushrooms and bell peppers. You’ll enjoy a satisfying, hearty dish without losing flavor.
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Crispy Texture: Lightly pan-fry your bean sprouts before adding them to the dish for some extra crunch. This simple change can add a delightful contrast to the tender noodles.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance for a customized bite!
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Sweet Tang: Mix in a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully. This little addition brightens the entire dish!
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Nutty Twist: Top your finished dish with chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch and a nutty flavor boost. It’s a delightful unexpected surprise!
Expert Tips for Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein
• Noodle Technique: Don’t overcook the noodles! Boil them only until they are 2-3 minutes shy of fully cooked to maintain that perfect chewy texture.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on your preferences—broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini work beautifully in this Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein!
• Sauce Balance: Always taste and adjust the sauce before adding to the pan. If you prefer more heat, a dash of chili sauce can elevate the flavors!
• Make-Ahead Meal: Prep your ingredients in advance! Chop the veggies and slice the chicken a day before to enjoy a quick cooking experience.
• Avoid Sogginess: Toss the noodles with sesame oil immediately after draining to prevent them from sticking together and becoming mushy.
What to Serve with Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein?
Sometimes, the joy of a wholesome meal can be enhanced even further with the perfect accompaniments that balance flavors and textures.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adding a vibrant green hue and a satisfying crunch, steamed broccoli complements lo mein beautifully with its mild taste.
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Egg Rolls: Crisp and filled with flavor, egg rolls are a delightful appetizer that pairs well with the savory elements of chicken lo mein.
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Sweet and Sour Sauce: A small bowl of this tangy sauce creates a lovely contrast of flavors, making each bite of lo mein even more pleasurable.
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Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil and garlic, these green beans bring a nutty crunch that echoes the flavors of the lo mein.
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Fried Rice: Pair it with some flavorful fried rice for a delightful fusion of textures; each element plays off each other well, creating a uniquely inviting meal.
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Chinese Tea: A soothing cup of jasmine or oolong tea can elevate the dining experience, cleansing the palate and enhancing the meal’s flavors.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For a simple yet indulgent dessert, this sweet treat balances the meal’s savoriness and ends the dinner on a delightful note.
Make Ahead Options
These Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the noodles by cooking them up to 24 hours in advance, then storing them in an airtight container to prevent sticking. Additionally, slice your vegetables (red bell pepper, carrot, onion, and cabbage) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, marinate your sliced chicken in the sauce mixture overnight to infuse it with flavor. When ready to serve, simply heat your skillet, cook the chicken, sauté the prepared vegetables, and toss everything together with the prepped noodles for a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh as if it were made that day!
Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right noodles for Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! I recommend using Chinese egg noodles as they provide a delightful chewiness that elevates the dish. Look for fresh or frozen varieties in the Asian section of your grocery store. If unavailable, you can substitute with thin spaghetti or linguine, but keep an eye on cooking times as they may differ.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Lo Mein?
Very simple! Store your Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the noodles and veggies for a fresh taste.
Can I freeze Chicken Lo Mein?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your cooled Chicken Lo Mein in a rigid container and it will last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop until piping hot. A drizzle of soy sauce while reheating adds a refreshing boost to the flavors!
What should I do if my Chicken Lo Mein turns out too dry?
If you find your dish is dry, don’t worry—you can easily fix it! Just add a splash of broth or water while reheating. Stir everything together and let it sit for a moment to absorb the moisture. If you like it saucy, a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce can enhance the flavor beautifully while adding moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, indeed! This Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein can be made gluten-free by using rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. For those with allergies, make sure to check the labels on your sauces, especially oyster sauce, as it may contain shellfish. You can also swap chicken for tofu or shrimp to cater to different dietary preferences.
How can I customize the vegetables in Chicken Lo Mein?
The more the merrier! You can personalize your Chicken Lo Mein by adding or substituting vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to suit your taste. Just remember to keep your vegetable cuts consistent so they cook evenly, and feel free to toss in whatever you have on hand!
Super Easy Chicken Lo Mein You'll Crave Again and Again
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the Chinese egg noodles for 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and toss them in a bowl with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and toss in the red bell pepper, minced ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
- In a bowl, mix together 3/4 cup water, 1/4 cup light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon oyster sauce. Pour into the skillet.
- Toss in the sliced carrot, onion, and cabbage. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until tender but vibrant.
- Return the cooked chicken and drained noodles to the skillet. Toss together to coat in the sauce.
- Finally, add the bean sprouts and give everything one last toss. Serve hot.